Automotive Industry Application Engineer

Job Description

Job Description

Beckhoff Automation is seeking a technically motivated, customer-centric Automotive Industry Application Engineer to help shape the future of automation in the North American. In this high-impact role, you will serve as a trusted technical partner to our automotive customers, enabling their success with cutting-edge automation, control, and end-of-line test solutions.

Working closely with our Automotive Industry Manager and global stakeholders, you’ll play a key role in executing our go-to-market strategy, driving the adoption of Beckhoff technologies, and contributing to growth across leading OEMs and Tier suppliers. This position blends deep technical engagement with strategic industry focus in one of Beckhoff’s most dynamic verticals.

The ideal candidate thrives at the intersection of engineering and customer interaction, is energized by solving complex challenges, and is motivated to advance Beckhoff’s reputation as an innovation leader in automotive automation.

Key Responsibilities

Technical Responsibilities

• Support customers on how to produce automotive parts and products faster with PC-based control and how to intelligently select from Beckhoff motion libraries
• Assist and guide customers in machine programming, integration and testing
• Write control and machine specifications
• Provide dimensions and specifications of relevant Beckhoff products for machine mechanics and electronics
• Identify complex problems and review related information to develop and evaluate options to implement creative Beckhoff solutions
• Technical development of application specific control and test concepts e.g. eMotor, Battery cell/module/pack, component assembly, etc
• Development of TwinCAT application examples, demonstrations, and Proof of Concepts to build credibility and confidence in Beckhoff products and solutions
• Identify metrics or indicators of system performance and the actions required to improve or correct performance in relation to the system's objectives
• Drive technical discovery and technical presentations in the USA

Team & Industry Responsibilities

• Internal communication with Beckhoff colleagues on new industry standards, market trends, etc
• Implement new products, test for digital manufacturing applications, and create demos for customers
• Interact with Sales and Application Engineers to understand the needs and progress of customer projects
• Communicate with industry and engineering professionals outside of Beckhoff, e.g. customer presentations
• Participate in industry trade shows, events and organizations
• Train and instruct customers and industry professionals on Beckhoff products

Business Development and Customer Engagement

• Accelerate the growth, presence and awareness of Beckhoff in the automotive industry
• Support local and global machine OEMs and System Integrators to drive the adoption of Beckhoff Automation products at automotive end-users

• Drive customer engagement

Disclaimer: This job description is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, or qualifications associated with the position. The company reserves the right to modify duties or assign additional responsibilities as necessary to meet business needs. Other duties as assigned.

What Makes This Role Unique

• Technical Ownership: Serve as a trusted advisor in deploying advanced automation and control solutions
• Customer Impact: Drive results by solving complex challenges for leading automotive manufacturers
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work at the intersection of engineering, product, and sales teams
• Industry Focus: Contribute to strategic growth in one of Beckhoff’s most dynamic verticals
• Autonomy with Support: Operate independently while backed by a global team of experts

What We’re Looking For

• Technically fluent engineer with at least 10 years’ experience architecting and applying automation systems and industrial controls
• Extensive experience in automotive production environments and manufacturing processes
• Familiarity with or enthusiasm for emerging automotive applications such as battery, e-motor, or electronics assembly
• Proficient in PLC, motion control, industrial PCs, fieldbus systems, and end-of-line test technologies
• Comfortable with programming in IEC 61131-3, C#, C++, and Python; object-oriented skills a plus
• Strong foundation in Windows and Linux environments, networking, and Microsoft Office tools
• Clear communicator with strong analytical and presentation capabilities
• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical, Mechanical, Computer, or related Engineering discipline

Work Location

This is a fully remote position. Team members may work from any of the following locations including Detroit, MI, Austin, TX, and Atlanta, GA. While relocation is not required, candidates should expect increased travel. Occasional in-person meetings and collaboration at one of Beckhoff’s offices are expected. Regular visits to Beckhoff Detroit office for automotive team meetings will be required.

Travel

This position requires varying travel up to 30%+ which may include day trips, overnight stays, and occasional extended travel depending on business needs. Travel may be local, regional, or national. All travel-related expenses will be reimbursed in accordance with company policy. Candidates must be able to meet the travel requirements of the role, and reasonable accommodations will be provided as needed in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

What We Offer

Benefits

At Beckhoff Automation USA, our privately held, family-owned culture empowers candid collaboration, the freedom to create innovative solutions, and strong relationships built around cutting-edge technology and shared purpose.

• Generous Paid Time Off + 12 Paid Holidays
• Employer paid High-Deductible Medical plan, Dental, and Vision for Employee + Family!
• 401(k) with up to 6% match
• Employer-Paid Insurance: Life, AD&D, Short-Term and Long-Term Disability
• Elective Benefits: Accident, Critical Illness, Indemnity, and Pet Insurance
• Professional Development Opportunities
• CarData Program: Fixed monthly reimbursement + Variable monthly mileage
  • Add $200.00 - $800.00 (Disclaimer: dependent on location)

Physical Requirements

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job, with or without reasonable accommodation:

• Ability to stand and sit for extended periods.
• Ability to use a computer screen for extended periods.
• Ability to lift and carry items weighing up to 50 pounds occasionally.
• Ability to bend, stoop, reach, and move as needed to perform job duties.
• Manual dexterity for operating tools and equipment.
• Adequate vision and hearing to perform essential tasks safely. 

About   Beckhoff

At Beckhoff, automation is our calling. We empower engineers to differentiate and succeed as industry leaders –– to harness new technologies, embrace open standards and solve the world’s most complex problems. Founded and led by engineers, we organically create advanced controls, communication, IoT, and motion technologies that become unique tools for your one-of-a-kind challenges in an age of digital transformation.

As a global partner with U.S. headquarters in Minneapolis, we remain committed to sustainability, inclusivity, and support for the people behind the automation. So, whether you’re powering the EV revolution, dazzling on Broadway, launching satellites, or developing fusion energy solutions – you can reach new heights for your business, industry, and humankind.

Beckhoff is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate against any applicant or employee based on race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, veteran status, or any other legally protected status. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and applicants. If you require a reasonable accommodation to complete the application process, participate in an interview, or otherwise take part in the recruitment process, please contact our Talent & Culture Team.